Influential longtime Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.) threw his support behind Andrew Cuomo ahead of Tuesday’s Democratic primary for New York City mayor, adding another prominent name to the former governor’s list of supporters.
Clyburn said he’s endorsing Cuomo because of his experience in office and record of accomplishing his initiatives. He said Cuomo searches for answers and places to find common ground to build coalitions.
“If he says he will build more affordable housing, raise the minimum wage, make the city safer and create more opportunities for our youth, you can be confident that he will — because he’s done it before,” Clyburn said in a statement. “His record of accomplishments is extraordinary, and I am confident he will be a great mayor of New York.”
Clyburn said he’s known Cuomo since he served as secretary of Housing and Urban Development during the Clinton administration, when they worked together to support those who were underserved, particularly people of color.
He said the role of New York City mayor is “uniquely positioned” to be important for the future of the Democratic Party, as it faces challenges addressing the Trump administration. He said the mayor must meet that challenge and defend the city.
“Andrew Cuomo has the experience, credentials, and character to not just serve New York, but also help save the nation,” Clyburn said.
Backing from the longtime Congressional Black Caucus member, who has served in various leadership positions during his tenure, including House majority whip, is a notable get for Cuomo as he hopes to solidify his support among Black voters. Polls have shown them to be a key part of Cuomo’s coalition.
Clyburn flexed political muscle in the past, most memorably when he endorsed former President Biden during his 2020 run after Biden struggled in the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary. But Biden rose significantly after Clyburn’s endorsement and went on to win the nomination and presidency.
Cuomo said he’s “honored and humbled” to have Clyburn’s support, calling him a “man who has spent a lifetime prioritizing making headway over headlines, of actions over words and results over performative politics.”
Clyburn is also taking part in robocalls going out to New Yorkers ahead of the Tuesday primary. In one call, he says Cuomo will stand up to President Trump and urges voters to vote early, as a heat wave could bring temperatures up to 100 degrees Tuesday.
Cuomo has been the front-runner throughout the race and is aiming to hold off a rising challenge from state Assembly member Zohran Mamdani, who has consistently placed second in the polls and is closing the gap. But the latest independent polling still shows Cuomo ahead.
Cuomo has notched other major endorsements from figures such as Reps. Tom Suozzi (D-N.Y.) and Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.), former New York Gov. David Paterson (D) and former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
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